An RAAF Airbus KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) has completed refuelling clearance trials with a US Air Force Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor, adding another type to the type’s growing list of authorised receiver aircraft.
The trials were conducted in August and September from Edwards AFB and the nearby Mojave Desert ranges in California. Eight missions were flown in total with the F-22 in different load configurations.
The resulting instructions from the trials will allow the KC-30 to refuel the F-22 in future exercises and coalition operations.
TwinTiger
says:So are there any allied or aligned military jets that the KC-30A / 330MRTT is still not certified to refuel?
TwinTiger
says:Not many (if any) jet platforms left to be authorised for refuelling by the KC-30A (330MRTT) platform.
That Ron guy
says:This sight must really make the US politicians cry – this is exactly what they were trying to avoid by rejecting the A330 MRTT, not once but twice, for their new tanker fleet. They couldn’t handle the thought of a “French” plane refueling their precious F-22 & F-35 aircraft (even though it would have been made in Alabama by Lockheed). The USAF sure wanted it. Glad they finally got to play together. ?